Sydney Bar Week is nearly upon us and we here at The Plus Ones are just as excited as you probably are! From 15th til the 19th September Sydneysiders will be graced with classy events to showcase our wonderful bar culture. There are events for professionals who work behind the bar and those of us who spend on weekends on the other side of the bar. We’re here to give you the low-down on this year’s best events, our favourites, and the ones you shouldn’t miss. Be sure to keep track of Bar Week’s Insta and Facebook to stay up to date!
Sydney Bar Week Launch Party @ Brix Distillers
Sydney’s Bar Week is kicking off in style (and with rum) at Brix Distillers in Surry Hills. This newcomer is Sydney’s very own rum distillery, finally filling that gap in our craft spirit market. Away from the hustle of the CBD but right in the heart of Sydney’s thriving bar culture. It’s the perfect spot to sample some new and interesting rums and ease your way into ba
Come and kick off Sydney Bar Week in style at the newest digs in town, Brix Distillers. They are Sydney’s very own rum distillery. A great way to ease yourself into the chaos of Bar Week! If you’re heading into Sydney from interstate drop them a line and they will try and accommodate you. Otherwise, invites will go out soon.
Saturday, 15th September, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Brix Distillers, 352 Bourke Street, Surry Hills
From Behind the Bar to in Front of the Stills
Join Manly Spirits Co. Distiller Tim Stones discussing how he transitioned from slinging gin to creating it. He will share his journey of changing careers, how he did this and explain how he makes award-winning spirits at Manly Spirits Co. (And how much he misses his expense account). He will then conduct a tasting of the full range of Manly Spirits’ gins, botanical vodkas, liqueurs and whisky. Tim has over twenty years spent in the drinks trade, from bartending at London’s Lab and Trailer Happiness, co-creating It’s A Rematch, Beeyatch!!! and working as the Global Brand Ambassador for Beefeater before changing careers and joining the team at Manly Spirits Co. Distillery. Limited Space so book in quickly.
Saturday, 15th September, 2:00pm – 4:00pm, Manly Spirits Co. Distillery, 4A/9-13 Winbourne Rd, Brookvale
Indie Spirits Tasting Sydney
The Indie Spirits Tasting returns to Restaurant Hubert this year for bartenders, restaurant owners, and spirit-lovers to sample the wares of craft spirit makers and engage in the free seminars given by master distillers. If it’s anything like last year’s event (link) then it’s bound to be jam-packed with awesome spirits from across Australia with a special focus on local distillers. The event, which is now staged in both Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane as well, will feature over 40 exhibitors showcasing more than 150 craft spirits, with master distillers on hand and free seminars going deep into the world of independent spirits. Tickets are just $55 (plus booking fee) or $35 if you get in early. It’s a fantastic way to spend your Sunday afternoon expanding your palette and spirit collection! Purchase tickets here.
Sunday, 16th September, 1:00pm – 4:00pm, Restaurant Hubert, 15 Bligh Street, Sydney
Tiki Face Off
After an afternoon sampling the best Indie Spirits that Sydney has to offer, make your way to Qxford Square to enjoy a world class Tiki Face-Off at The Cliff Dive. The event puts bar versus bar to compete for the the golden apple. The winner is the one who can create the ridiculous, over the top and most tropical cocktails of all time! Dust off your florals and join for tiki drinks to cheer on your favourite rum bars! Email info@therumclub.com.au for more info.
Sunday, 16th September, 6:00pm – 8:00pm, The Cliff Dive, 16-18 Oxford Square, Darlinghurst
47th Street Post Office
Who doesn’t love a secret party? For those that love exclusive events and secret bars, this event is tailor made for you! The crew from Monkey 47 will be sending out invites to the grand opening of theire new location 47th Street Post Office. Come and enjoy a night of tipples and nibbles by Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin. They’re hinting at some fantastic giveaways on the night so this is one event to make sure you make! To RSVP, direct message Kate Moran on her Instagram page: www.instagram.com/kate.lesnouveauxdistillers/. Hurry gin-lovers!
Sunday, 16th September, 8:00pm – 10:00pm, Secret Location
Russell’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon: Fermentation Workshop
Father & Son Bourbon Master Distillers, Jimmy and Eddie Russell, have created a unique bond through their unwavering commitment and passion for high quality craftsmanship. To celebrate this bond, Russell’s Reserve invites you to a hands-on workshop to learn about the fermentation techniques applied to bourbon, cured meats and bread. Join Russell’s Reserve Brand Ambassador Jay Lambert, expert baker Antonio Zambarelli and master salumi artisan Michael Dalsk who will share their family legacy, heritage and secrets to enrich your fermentation repertoire. RSVP to wildturkeyau@campari.com
Monday, 17th September, 3:00pm – 5:00pm, Kittyhawk upstairs, ‘The Officer’s Mess’ – 16 Philip Lane, Sydney
Looking Back, to the future of Rum
Fast becoming the craft industries new favourite, rum has seen a rise in popularity among the masses and bartenders alike. However, this spirit has a deep history. Global Ambassador of the Rum Category and recently awarded International Ambassador of the Year at Tales, Ian Burrell will share his stories about his favourite subject (rum) and inform lucky listeners about how the past will help us understand the future of rum. Plus, there will be a chance to taste some exclusive rums on the night, held in the perfect rum venue. Rosie Campbell’s whose tagline is fittingly: ‘Everything’s Rosier with Rum!’.
Tuesday, 18th September, 3:00pm – 5:00pm, Rosie Campbell’s, 320 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Bar Awards After Parties
For those that may not be able to secure an invite to the Bar Awards, head on down to the numerous venues hosting after parties! For they are the true parties after all. The Bar Awards are exclusive to sponsors and finalists, so the rest of us will have to party in style at the after parties. Head on over to the Bar Awards social medias to see where the hottest after parties will be happening. Some of our favourite venues, like Frankies’s, Big Poppa’s, and Ramlin’ Rascal Tavern are among the hosts. See you there!
Tuesday, 18th September, 11:00pm – late, numerous venues
Whiskey Roadshow
A personal favourite of mine, held again at the iconic Clock Hotel in Surry Hills. This intimate roadshow brings together whisky lovers, enthusiasts, and experts. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample various whiskies from all over the world. There will also be whiskies to purchase on the night. Last year, some distilleries announced and showcased their yet-to-be-released drams, to the delight of the attendees. If you are a whisky-lover this is one Bar Week event that you should not miss. Buy tickets here.
Wednesday, 19th September, 5.30pm – 8.30pm, The Clock Hotel, 470 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Punches & Decanters – Bar Week Closing Party
Close out Bar Week at the must-attend Punches & Decanters party! Celebrate all of the delicious beverages and good times you’ve enjoyed throughout the week. The Duke of Clarence will be serving bespoke drinks along the theme of ‘Punches and Decanters’ from their menu. No tickets required, but this is bound to be a favourite. First in, best dressed.
Wednesday, 19th September, 8:00pm – 11:00pm, The Duke of Clarence, 152/156 Clarence Street, Sydney
– Orlaith
F&B Specialist. Usually seen with a flat white in hand or on her way to a craft beer or whiskey tasting. Needs to stop buying books and start reading them.
You’ll find more over on Bar Week’s website: www.barweek.com.au/timetable
Stay tuned to @sydneybarweek on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or www.barweek.com.au for updates and announcements.
